History of Plancius

M/v “Plancius” was built in 1976 as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy and was named “Hr. Ms. Tydeman”. The ship sailed for the Dutch Navy until June 2004 and was eventually purchased by Oceanwide Expeditions. The vessel was completely rebuilt as a pssenger vessel in 2009 and complies with the latest SOLAS-regulations (Safety Of Life At Sea). M/v “Plancius” is classed by Lloyd’s Register and flies the Dutch flag.

Specifications

Passengers:	108 passengers in 50 cabins
Staff & crew:	Crew 40 \| Guides 8 \| Doctor 1
Length:	89 meters (293 feet)
Breadth:	14,5 meters (47 feet)
Draft:	5 meters (16 feet)
Ice class:	1D (Plancius has a Lloyds class notation 100A1 Passenger ship, Ice Class 1D at a draught of 5 meters)
Displacement:	3211 tonnes
Propulsion:	3x Diesel-Electric
Speed:	10.5 knots average cruising speed

Deck plans and downloads

m/v Plancius cabins

Perfect for any expedition

M/v “Plancius” accommodates 108 passengers with private toilet and shower in 4 quadruple porthole cabins, 9 twin porthole cabins, 25 twin cabins with window and 2 twin deluxe cabins, all (ca. 12,5 square meters) and 10 twin superior cabins (ca. 21 square meters). All cabins offer lower berths (one queen-size bed in the superior cabins and two single beds in the twin cabins), except for the 4 quadruple cabins (for 4 persons in 2x upper and lower beds).

Plancius: a vessel with comfort and character

Please be aware that a small number of cabins may have a partially obstructed view due to the design requirements of the ship. The best view is always on the outer deck or the bridge.The vessel offers a restaurant/lecture room on deck 3 and a spacious observation lounge (with bar) on deck 5 with large windows, offering full panorama view. M/v “Plancius” has large open deck spaces (with full walk-around possibilities on deck 4), giving excellent opportunities to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. She is furthermore equipped with 10 Mark V zodiacs, including 40 HP 4-stroke outboard engines and 2 gangways on the starboard side, guaranteeing a swift zodiac operation. M/v “Plancius” is comfortable and nicely decorated, but is not a luxury vessel. Our voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic regions are primarily defined by an exploratory educational travel programme, spending as much time ashore as possible. Plancius fully meets our demands to achieve this. The vessel is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system which reduces the noise and vibration of the vessel considerably. The 3 diesel engines generate 1.230 horse-power each, giving the vessel a speed of 10 - 12 knots. The vessel is ice-strengthened and was specially built for oceanographic voyages. M/v “Plancius” is manned by an international crew of 40 (20 nautical crew and 20 hotel crew), 8 expedition staff (1 expedition leader, 1 assistant expedition leader and 6 guides/lecturers), and 1 doctor.

Photo gallery

70 photos of the ship
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Age and Nationality

Passengers on a typical voyage range from their 30s to their 80s - with a majority usually from 45 - 65. Our expeditions attract independent-minded travellers from around the world. They are characterised by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie and spirit that develops aboard is an important part of the expedition experience. Many departures have several nationalities on board.

Dress code

In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call "Whales!" comes over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship - and often cold on deck.

Currency & payment

Refreshments from the bar and souvenirs will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the Hotel Manager and pay by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (Euro or Dollar). We do not accept cheques of any kind. The prices and standard currency on board our vessels is the Euro. Other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager at prevailing rates.

Electric current

The electrical supply aboard the ship is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins. You may need a 220v/110v converter.

Gratuities

The customary gratuity to the ship's service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage which is divided among the crew. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest US$8 to US$10 per person per day. It is better for the crew, if you can give them cash US Dollar.

Non-smoking policy

On board our vessels we have a non-smoking policy. It is prohibited to smoke inside the ship. You can smoke in the designated smoking areas. Please respect the wishes of non-smokers.

Your physical condition

You must be in good general health and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join most excursions, you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway from the ship to the water level to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats. This will become progressively easier with practice. Ashore it can be slippery and rocky. You are travelling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition, or need daily medical treatment.

Our cruises

Up to $8000 OFF

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Meet at least six penguin species

PLA27-25 This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

m/v Plancius

Cruise date:

16 Jan - 3 Feb, 2025

Berths start from:

9450 USD

Cruise page

Up to $3800 OFF

Antarctica - Discovery and learning voyage

Classic Antarctica including Deception Island

PLA28-25 This Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands cruise delivers you into a landscape of dark rugged rock, pure white snow, and a fantastic variety of wildlife. Come say hello to whales, seals, and thousands of penguins.

m/v Plancius

Cruise date:

3 Feb - 13 Feb, 2025

Berths start from:

6050 USD

Cruise page

Antarctica - Basecamp - free camping, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshop

The best activity voyage in Antarctica

PLA29-25 The Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp cruise offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic Region. This expedition allows you to hike, snowshoe, kayak, go mountaineering, and even camp out under the Southern Polar skies.

m/v Plancius

Cruise date:

13 Feb - 25 Feb, 2025

Berths start from:

9900 USD

Cruise page

Antarctica - Basecamp - free camping, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshop

The best activity voyage in Antarctica

PLA30-25 The Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp cruise offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic Region. This expedition allows you to hike, snowshoe, kayak, go mountaineering, and even camp out under the Southern Polar skies.

m/v Plancius

Cruise date:

25 Feb - 9 Mar, 2025

Berths start from:

9900 USD

Cruise page

Antarctica - Elephant Island - Weddell Sea - Polar Circle

Venture beyond the polar circle, visiting some of Antarctica’s most wildlife-filled waters and islands

PLA31-25 This expansive expedition takes you into the Antarctic Circle, combining the rich animal life of the Weddell Sea with the surreal shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Such key landing sites as the legendary Elephant Island and Crystal Sound...

m/v Plancius

Cruise date:

9 Mar - 23 Mar, 2025

Berths start from:

10500 USD

Cruise page

We have a total of
41 cruises

All cruises

Reviews

Once in a lifetime Best & Transformative experience. 10/10 Highly recommended. Trip of a lifetime...!

by Rashmi Reddy

It was a long time pending wish to visit Antarctica. It happened this November. The 13 day trip in MV Hondius from Ushuaia to Antarctic peninsula was a dream come true. From departure to return, every step of the way was brilliantly done by the expedition leader (George), expedition team, captain, and ship’s crew. In spite of extremely challenging weather, we were able to get out and experience the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and activities due to the experience and dedication of the Oceanwide team. Kayaking through a sea of icebergs, Mountaineering, Camping at Kerry Point on Ronge Island where the perfect silent was broken a few times by the thundering sound of breaking ice in the glacier beside us, Zodiac Cruising in search of wildlife and landings on Antartica to visit Penguin colonies… all incredible experiences. The lectures on board and the expertise of the zodiac guides on Antarctic wildlife, history, and other topics made this trip extra special. The passengers came from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries, and ages and made for excellent company on board and off. Even seasickness on the Drake was no match for such an incredible time.This was the best thing I have ever done. Everything, from the activities to the wildlife to the friends I met on board, exceeded my expectations. This could not have been possible without the wonderful guides and everyone else on the ship working hard to make this Basecamp Expedition so memorable. Thank you!!

I will be back

by zhao yi

In November 30th, I took my two children on the Oceanwide cruise to explore the pure land of Antarctica. From the moment I boarded the ship, I felt the enthusiasm of all the crew members, especially for a family combination like us - a father with two children, one 7 years old and the other 11 years old. For children, Antarctica is more difficult to reach and faces more difficulties. Fortunately, on the ship, the crews were well taken care of and were not ignored because of their young age. Expedition leader Sara and all the expedition members put their safety first when landing on the island and cruising to ensure their safe tour in Antarctica. In the wheelhouse, the crew told them some knowledge about the ship. Although the children's Englishwas not very good, the children felt cared for. There are also two Chinese translators, Yukan and Shan, who are the most important roles of the staff. Their translated notices, safety instructions of the expedition members, daily summaries and itinerary plans for the next day enable many Chinese people, including children, who do not know English, to fully understand the information on the cruise ship. During the process of landing on the island, I lingered around taking photos. Two Chinese translators took the initiative to take care of my children, reminding them not to go to dangerous places such as the beach. They showed them penguins and taught them about seals, whales, and penguins. They became good friends with the children, allowing them to experience the warmth of the Antarctic family while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The children are reluctant to part with them. During the island landing, I was busy taking photos. Two Chinese translators helped me take care of the children, reminding them not to go to dangerous places such as the beach, and told them about seals and penguins. They became good friends with the children, allowing them to feel the warmth of the Antarctic family while enjoying the beautiful scenery. In short, it was a very pleasant trip. I will recommend OEACNWIDE to my friends, and I will definitely board this ship again to explore the unknown wonders of the Arctic.

Trip of a Lifetime

by Dean Norowski

We had the most amazing experience! Never a dull moment. We consistently had the opportunity for zodiac cruises and making landfall. George & the entire staff were phenomenal!

Fantastic cruise with a great crew on a wonderful vessel.

by Matthew Johnson

Just go. If you've got this far, you're already interested in an Expidition-type cruise to Antarctica, and you should totally just go. With Oceanwide Expeditions on the Hondius. The itinerary is superb, staff and crew give their all to ensure an awesome time, and the overall experience is beyond any expectations that I had. The magic of Antarctica is something else, but doing it with a team dedicated to giving you the best experience possible and just being a great bunch of people makes it even more special. Looking to do another cruise with them in the future. Maybe the Arctic!!

Best Trip Ever

by Melissa R.

This was the best thing I have ever done. Everything, from the activities to the wildlife to the friends I met on board, exceeded my expectations. This could not have been possible without the wonderful guides and everyone else on the ship working hard to make this Basecamp Expedition so memorable. Thank you!!

10/10 Experience

by Katherine Patton

From departure to return, every step of the way was brilliantly done by the expedition leader (George), expedition team, captain, and ship’s crew. In spite of extremely challenging weather, we were able to get out and experience the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and activities due to the experience and dedication of the Oceanwide team. Kayaking through a sea of icebergs, watching whales feeding while camping on the ice, listening to the glaciers calving while mountaineering… all incredible experiences. The lectures on board and the expertise of the zodiac guides on Antarctic wildlife, history, and other topics made this trip extra special. The passengers came from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries, and ages and made for excellent company on board and off. Even seasickness on the Drake was no match for such an incredible time.

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